Did your IVF treatment fail? Expert lists a series of tests to identify the root cause

New Delhi: A failed IVF cycle can be emotionally challenging, but detailed medical tests help identify the cause and improve the chances of success in the next attempt. Here, the expert lists out various tests that can be recommended after the failed IVF. The couple shouldn’t get bogged down after the failure. It is still possible to fulfil the dream of parenthood. In an interview with News9Live, Dr. Amrita Singh, Fertility Specialist, Nova IVF Fertility, Preet Vihar, Delhi-NCR, answered this.

What is IVF?

Also Read

Top activities to do in Church for meaningful Christmas 2025

Winter skincare guide: Simple tips to prevent dry and flaky skin

Egg freezing: Expert decodes why timing is of utmost importance

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is one of the most trusted fertility treatments for couples struggling to conceive naturally. It helps women with blocked tubes, low ovarian reserve, PCOS, endometriosis, and men with low sperm count or poor sperm quality. While IVF has a success rate, sometimes, the procedure can fail. However, a failed cycle can be concerning, disappointing, frustrating, and cause stress and anxiety. However, the couple's journey doesn’t end here. There is a long way to go. The expert may recommend a set of tests to understand what went wrong and how to improve the next cycle. These tests help assess egg quality, sperm health, hormonal balance, uterine condition, embryo quality, and genetic factors. The couple should not give up and be hopeful of conceiving in the future.

Hormonal Re-evaluation (Female): In addition to routine hormonal testing like Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), Luteinizing hormone ( LH), thyroid levels (TSH), and prolactin, many advanced tests are done. Advanced tests to detect auto-immune antibodies, immune cytokine tests ( pro- inflammatory, anti- inflammator,y and growth factor), thrombophilia profile, etc., are done in an attempt to find out the cause of failure. In addition to these tests Couple Karyotype test can also be done to check chromosomal abnormalities in parents. These tests help to understand the reasons that may affect embryo development and implantation failure, resulting in failed IVF treatment.

Ovarian Reserve Re-assessment: Antral Follicle Count (AFC) and Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) are done to see how many eggs the ovaries can produce. Low ovarian reserve and lower egg output in previous treatment may require a different IVF protocol and a change in medication.

Uterine Assessment: Tests such as hysteroscopy help to detect polyps, fibroids, adhesions, or infections that may prevent implantation. These conditions can be corrected before the next cycle.

Endometrial Receptivity Testing (ERA Test): This test checks whether the uterine lining is ready for implantation at the right time. Some women need a personalised embryo transfer window.

Advanced Sperm testing ( DFI): A detailed semen analysis, re-checks, and sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI ) tests are done if previous embryo development was poor.

Genetic Testing for Embryos (PGT-A): If embryos did not implant or miscarriages occurred, doctors may test embryos for chromosomal issues. PGT-A improves the chances of transferring a healthy embryo.

Infection Screening: Tests for hidden infections in the uterus and female genital and nearby organs, and also in semen, help in ruling out inflammation that may interfere with pregnancy.

With proper evaluation, personalised treatment plans, and corrective measures, many couples achieve pregnancy even after a failed IVF. Understanding the cause and addressing it early increases confidence and improves overall IVF success.